Iman Biography

Iman is the founder and CEO of IMAN Cosmetics, Skincare, and Fragrances, a beauty brand that pioneered the first cosmetics and skincare line for women of color. The IMAN brand philosophy, which was founded in 1994, argues that women of color represent a diverse range of races, cultures, and nationalities. IMAN Cosmetics, Skincare, and Fragrances are created for African American, Asian, Latina, and multi-cultural women of various skin tones. The line includes skincare and cosmetics, as well as 16 different foundation colors. IMAN Cosmetics, Skincare, and Fragrances are available in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Africa, and the Caribbean. Iman is active in several charities, including The Children's Defense Fund, Action Against Hunger, and the RAISE HOPE FOR CONGO campaign, which aims to build a permanent and diverse constituency of activists who advocate for the protection and empowerment of Congolese women and girls, in addition to running a global beauty company. Iman's debut book, I am Iman (Universe, 2001), was an autobiographical sketchbook of her career in which she questioned "the unserious business of fashion and beauty and its serious influence on identity." Her second book, The Beauty of Color: The Ultimate Beauty Guide for Skin of Color (Putnam Penguin 2005), is the first beauty and cosmetics book to properly cover skin tones throughout the spectrum, including Latina, Black, Asian, Indian, Middle Eastern, Native American, and other ethnicities. She's changed the way women of color think about their appearance. She has developed IMAN GLOBAL CHIC, a collection of handbags, jewelry, and fashion items available only on HSN and HSN.COM, as she has extended her horizons with expertise and a sharp eye. Among HSN's more than 200 fashion and jewelry companies, the line is one of two best sellers. Iman also just debuted IMAN HOME, a line of globally inspired textiles and stylish home décor. Iman received the coveted Fashion Icon Award from the Council of Fashion Designers (CFDA) in 2010. Iman began her modeling career in 1975 and has been defying conventional beauty standards ever since. Iman was born in Somalia, the daughter of an African ambassador, and grew up learning five languages. She was found by famous photographer Peter Beard while studying political science at Nairobi University. In 1976, she had her first modeling job for Vogue. Iman was an instant hit in the fashion industry, serving as a muse for Yves Saint Laurent, Versace, Calvin Klein, and Donna Karan, among others. She worked with famous photographers Helmut Newton, Richard Avedon, Irving Penn, and Annie Liebovitz throughout her 14 years as a model. Iman is the mother of two children and is married to David Bowie, with whom she shares Alexandria Zahra. Zulekha Haywood is Iman's eldest daughter.

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